Why are people drawn to coffee shops? It's a question I've pondered for a couple of years now. Ever since I had my first cup my freshmen year, I've wondered why they are so special.

See, I come from a small town in Southeast Iowa where coffee is something you make in the morning to help you wake up and you go about your day. I never had a local coffee shop to go to or a Starbucks down the block to help me wake up. I never drank coffee because it wasn't special, it was just caffeine that I didn't need.

Anybody can make coffee; with the right equipment, knowledge and practice, making a good cup of coffee is fairly simple. Given this, why don't more people just make their own coffee instead of spending a couple dollars more for one at a coffee shop?

When I went to the coffee shop my freshman year with my friend, I ordered a latte, sat back and enjoyed it. Looking back, it wasn't the greatest drink I've ever had, but for some reason that day, I thought it was such an amazing drink.

Coffee shops are special, not because the coffee they serve is amazing (while that does make the difference SOMETIMES), but because of the environment they create for their customers.

When I think back on the past few years and all of the coffee shops I have visited, the best shops have been the ones where I feel relaxed and forget about all the things that I have to do in my life. The best coffee shops I've visited are the ones that create an environment for me to lose myself and just enjoy life for a while.

Next time you find yourself stressed with everything life is throwing your way, create some margin in your week and visit a local coffee shop. While it may not seem like the best use of your time, taking some time for yourself in a relaxed environment like a coffee shop may just be what you need to get your groove back and tackle life again.

- DV